University of Calgary centre Gavrilova named CIS women's hockey player of year

CP

CALGARY - University of Calgary centre Iya Gavrilova was named Canadian Interuniversity Sport women's hockey player of the year Wednesday night.

The three-time Olympian from Krasnoyarsk, Russia, became only the second Dino to claim the Brodrick Trophy. Dinos teammate and Canadian forward Hayley Wickenheiser was honoured in 2010-'11.

Gavrilova, who returned to the Dinos this year after spending last season preparing for the Sochi Games, led all CIS players with 21 goals in 23 league games.

"Iya's return to the Dinos was a key factor in the success of our team this season," said head coach Danielle Goyette. "It's easy to notice all the work she has done during the off-season, it paid off and it showed on ice. She's a player that has great work ethic, always trying to find a way to improve on and off the ice.

"As captain, her leadership skills are an integral part to the Dinos women's hockey program."

Gavrilova also had 16 assists and a plus-35 rating. Forwards Alex Normore of St. Francis Xavier, Ariane Barker of Montreal and Lisa Stathopulos of York were also considered for the honour.

Manitoba forward Alanna Sharman was named rookie of the year and Western's Chris Higgins took the coach of the year honour. Toronto goaltender Nicole Kesteris won the Marion Hilliard Award celebrating excellence in athletics, academics and community involvement.

Gavrilova was joined by Barker, Stathopulos, Sarah Casorso of UBC, Kristen Barbara of York and Western goaltender Kelly Campbell on the all-Canadian first team.

Award winners were announced at the Sun Life Financial All-Canadian Banquet at the Markin MacPhail Centre.